[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 17262]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                 IN MEMORY OF CONGRESSMAN FLOYD SPENCE

  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, last month, the U.S. Congress lost one 
of the finest public servants I have had the honor to know. As my 
colleagues may know, Congressman Floyd Spence, who represented South 
Carolina's 2nd District, passed away on August 16, 2001. Floyd Spence 
may no longer walk the halls of Congress, but the countless 
contributions he made over the last three decades will continue to 
influence South Carolina and this great Nation.
  Floyd was a humble public servant who was proud of his modest 
background, often introducing himself as ``Floyd Spence, dirt farmer.'' 
He was a principled man who could disarm anyone with his friendly 
disposition and his distinct chuckle. It was difficult, if not 
impossible, for anyone to dislike Floyd.
  Too often we take life for granted, but not Floyd Spence. As a 
beneficiary of two organ transplants, he knew too well he had been 
given not just a second, but a third change at life. As a result, Floyd 
lived life to the fullest, dedicating it to the service of others and 
his Nation.
  Floyd's generosity was demonstrated by his willingness to lend an ear 
to those who faced the frightening prospect of a transplant, or the 
even scarier possibility of not receiving an organ in time. Having 
faced these fears himself, he welcomed the opportunity to comfort 
individuals from across the United States who called to ask him about 
his own experience.
  My friend, ever the Southern gentleman, leaves behind a legacy of 
dedicated public service. For almost fifty years he loyally served the 
people of South Carolina. Floyd was also an outspoken advocate for our 
Armed Services and had served as Chairman for the House Armed Services 
Committee. As a retired Naval Reserve Officer, he recognized the 
importance of a strong military and worked tirelessly to ensure that 
the needs of our Armed Services were addressed.
  He was a true patriot, a dedicated public servant, and he will be 
greatly missed by all who knew him. Floyd is an inspiration to all, and 
my heartfelt sympathy goes out to his devoted wife Debbie, and his fine 
sons, David, Zach, Ben, and Caldwell, and to his dedicated staff.

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